Cervical and Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection

What are Cervical and Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections?

Cervical and lumbar epidural steroid injections are used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain caused by nerve root compression due to conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica. A corticosteroid medication is injected into the epidural space around the spinal cord, targeting the source of inflammation and pain. The injection is guided by fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) for precision.

Get targeted relief for radiating neck, back, or limb pain—without surgery.

Reasons For Treatment

  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Sciatica or nerve root compression
  • Chronic neck or low back pain
  • Radiating arm or leg pain
  • Failed response to oral medication or physical therapy
  • Need to delay or avoid surgery

How To Prepare

You may be asked to fast for 6 hours before the procedure, especially if sedation is planned. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and arrange for someone to drive you home. Inform your provider of all medications, especially blood thinners and diabetes medications, which may require temporary adjustment.

What To Expect After Treatment

Mild soreness at the injection site is common and should resolve within a day or two. Pain relief may occur within a few days, though some patients experience improvement sooner. Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours. You may resume light walking the same day. Contact your provider if you experience severe pain, weakness, numbness, or symptoms of infection.

Possible Side Effects

  • Temporary pain at the injection site
  • Headache or dizziness
  • Flushing or warmth
  • Elevated blood sugar levels (especially in diabetics)
  • Infection (rare)
  • Bleeding or nerve damage (very rare)
  • Allergic reaction to medications (rare)

Herniated Disc Care

At Legacy Integrative Pain Institute, Dr. Ye leads a dedicated team of specialists offering innovative, comprehensive treatment for herniated discs. By combining advanced interventional therapies with holistic methods, including acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine, the team creates personalized care plans to address the root causes of pain and promote long-term healing.

Discover Our Distinctive Care Advantage

Legacy Integrative Pain Institute excels in innovative, non-invasive pain management with bilingual services in Mandarin and English. Experience personalized care and cutting-edge therapies from top pain doctors in Houston.